Once a map has been shared with you, you'll be able to edit it alongside your classmates. If you and your classmates are simultaneously editing a map, you may need to click your browser's refresh button to see their changes.
Like any digital tool, there's always a chance for data loss. You can minimize the risk of data loss by coordinating updates with classmates. Don't try to simultaneously edit the same place marker as a classmate. Talk to each other about workflows, timelines, and the updates you're making to location markers and map layers.
If you're worried about data loss, you can make copies of your class collaborative map. Creating a copy of a map can be helpful if you need to create a backup copy. It can also function as a place to test out different designs before adding your finalized locations to the class map.
If you want to delete a map that you own, it will be moved to your trash can in Google Drive. It will be recoverable until you permanently delete it. Collaborators will also be able to create copies of the map before you permanently delete it.
You can embed publicly-shared My Maps into external websites. This method can be helpful if you want to build out more narrative and integrate other types of media into your final digital projects.